Can my spouse or children join me while I study in Finland?

Spouses, cohabiting partners and children can join a student in Finland by applying for residence permits on the basis of family ties.

Family members generally receive the same type of permit as you: an A (continuous) permit if you are studying for a higher education degree, or a B (temporary) permit if you hold a temporary student permit. A family member's first A permit is granted for at most one year, and an extended family permit for up to four years.

Note that the B permit is more restrictive for family reunification and EU mobility, so the type of degree you study affects your family's options.